2 minute read
Dark and quiet skies high on the agenda
from Contact 13
BY MATHIEU ISIDRO (SKAO)
It’s been a busy period on the topic of large satellite constellations and the protection of dark and quiet skies.
In May, the G7 science and technology ministers (Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom, the United States; also includes the EU) met in Japan ahead of the G7 Summit. For the first time, they discussed the issue of dark and quiet skies, and expressed support for continued engagement, a clear sign that the issue has reached the highest levels, and is gathering support. The SKAO and fellow astronomy organisations played a key role in reaching out to decision-makers in government to highlight the importance of the issue.
– G7 science and technology ministers’ communique
The SKAO actively participates in both the ITU and the United Nations’ Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space (COPUOS), and has long advocated for better regulations and protection for radio astronomy.
At the beginning of June, COPUOS met in Vienna, Austria, where the issue was extensively discussed by the 100+ countries represented in the committee. Led by a proposal from Spain, Chile, South Africa and others, several dozen delegations expressed support for COPUOS to continue discussing the issue. A side event organised by the Spanish delegation provided an opportunity for Federico Di Vruno, the SKAO’s Spectrum Manager, to update delegations on the satellites’ impact on radio-astronomy.
With financial support from the SKAO and NOIRLab, the two co-hosts of the IAU centre that tackles the impact of satellites on astronomy, the UN Office in Vienna also hosted the photo exhibition Our Fragile Space by renowned photographer Max Alexander during COPUOS. The exhibition shines a light on the issue of space sustainability, and in particular space debris and the impact of satellites on astronomy. The exhibition is heading to Jodrell Bank next (home of the SKAO’s HQ), where it will be on display over the northern summer.
